Automated pusher assemblies with product piercing members for clipping packaging apparatus

ABSTRACT

Methods, devices and computer program products automatically package an object in a covering material such as casing and/or netting by: (a) automatically pushing at least one object through a product chute; (b) pulling a covering material upstream of the product chute off an exterior surface of the product chute to automatically enclose the object in the covering material as the object exits the product chute; and (c) applying a clip to the covering material to secure the object in the packing material.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/952,421 filed Sep. 28, 2004, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,237,369,on Jul. 3, 2007, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/508,609 filed Oct. 3, 2003 and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/579,846 filed Jun. 15, 2004, the contentsof the above documents are hereby incorporated by reference as ifrecited in full herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatus that can package and applyclosure clips to materials that enclose products therein, and may beparticularly suitable for clipping netting material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Certain types of commodity and/or industrial items can be packaged byplacing the desired product(s) in a covering material and then applyinga closure clip or clips to end portions of the covering material tosecure the product(s) therein. For non-flowable piece goods, the piecegoods can be held individually in a respective clipped package, or as agroup of goods in a single package. The covering material can be anysuitable material, typically a casing and/or netting material. Generallydescribed, when packaging a piece good product in netting, the productis manually pushed through a netting chute. The product can include, byway of example, a non-flowable semi-solid and/or solid object such as ameat product including whole or half hams, turkey, chicken, and thelike. The netting chute holds a length of a netting sleeve over theexterior thereof. A first downstream end portion of the netting istypically closed using a first clip. As the product exits the nettingchute, it is covered with the netting. An operator can then orient theproduct inside the netting between the discharge end of the chute andthe clipped first end portion of the netting. The operator can then pullthe netting so that the netting is held relatively tight (typicallystretched or in tension) over the product. The operator then useshis/her hands to compress or gather the open end of the netting(upstream of the product) and manually applies a clip to the netting,typically using a Tipper Tie® double clipper apparatus. A clipattachment apparatus or “clippers” are well known to those of skill inthe art and include those available from Tipper Tie, Inc., of Apex,N.C., including product numbers Z3214, Z3202, and Z3200. Examples ofclip attachment apparatus and/or packaging apparatus are described inU.S. Pat. Nos. 3,389,533; 3,499,259; 4,683,700; and 5,161,347, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited infull herein.

The double clipper concurrently applies two clips to the nettingproximate the open (upstream) end of the package. One clip defines thefirst end portion of the next package and the other defines the trailingor second end portion of the package then being closed. A cuttingmechanism incorporated in the clipper apparatus can sever the twopackages before the enclosed package is removed from the clipperapparatus. U.S. Pat. No. 4,766,713 describes a double clipper apparatusused to apply two clips to a casing covering. U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,701proposes a clipper with a clip attachment mechanism configured toselectively fasten a single clip or two clips simultaneously. Themechanism has two punches, one of which is driven directly by apneumatic cylinder and the other of which is connected to the firstpunch using a pin and key assembly. The pin and key assembly allows thepunches to be coupled or decoupled to the pneumatic cylinder drive toapply one single clip or two clips simultaneously. U.S. Pat. No.5,586,424 proposes an apparatus for movement of U-shaped clips along arail. The apparatus includes a clip feed for advancing clips on a guiderail and the arm is reciprocally driven by a piston and cylinderarrangement. The contents of each of these patents are herebyincorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.

Other devices provide for semi-automated or automated clipping asdescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/339,910 andco-assigned, co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/508,659, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by referenceas if recited in full herein. U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/339,910 describes a device with a chute that is configured to packagea product, such as a vacuum-packed turkey, and can also form a handle ina tubular covering encasing the product.

SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatus, subassembliesand/or other devices, systems, methods and computer program products forpackaging a product in a covering material and/or applying clipsthereto.

In certain embodiments, the product can be manipulated and packaged sothat at least one clip is automatically applied to enclose the productin the covering material. Particular embodiments automatically package adiscrete object or objects in netting.

Certain embodiments are directed to systems for enclosing at least oneproduct in a covering material. The systems include: (a) an elongateproduct chute having an outer surface and opposing receiving anddischarge end portions with an interior cavity extending therethrough;(b) a product pusher mechanism that is configured to controllablyautomatically advance into and retract from the product chute to therebyadvance a product through the product chute and out of the discharge endportion of the product chute; (c) a clipper mechanism disposeddownstream of the product chute in cooperating alignment therewith, theclipper mechanism configured to apply at least one clip to a coveringmaterial that encloses the product after the product exits the productchute; and (d) a cutting member disposed downstream of the productchute, the cutting member configured to cooperate with the clippermechanism to, in operation, automatically travel generally upwardly tosever adjacent portions of covering material from an underside to topside thereof.

In some embodiments the system can include a handle maker incommunication with the covering material and disposed downstream of theproduct chute proximate the clipper mechanism. In certain embodiments,the clipper mechanism travels from the first position to the secondposition while the handle maker is forming a handle to thereby reduceclip cycle time.

In some embodiments, the system includes a modular mounting frame,wherein the handle maker and the clipper mechanism are configured to beselectively mounted to either a right or left hand side of the modularmounting frame and align to a desired operating position (independent ofwhich side the mechanism or handle maker are mounted on). The clippermechanism and handle maker are typically configured to reside onopposing sides of the mounting frame.

In other embodiments, methods of cutting or severing adjacent portionsof a covering material having two longitudinally spaced apart sealedportions held in tension, include: (a) automatically raising a knifefrom a position below two longitudinally spaced apart sealed portions ofcovering material; and (b) severing the covering material between thetwo longitudinally sealed portions in a bottom to top order, responsiveto raising the knife.

The covering material can comprise netting. In particular embodiments,the method also includes: applying two longitudinally spaced apart clipsto netting material to form the spaced apart sealed portions, one clipdefining a trailing edge portion of a packaged product wrapped in thenetting and the other clip defining a leading edge portion of anotherpackage; and automatically moving the knife to a home position after thesevering step. The severing and moving steps can release the packagedproduct to allow the packaged product to travel downstream past theknife.

In some embodiments, the applying step includes automatically pivoting aclipper mechanism into an operative position, the method furthercomprising automatically gathering the netting material prior to theapplying step, wherein the knife is attached to the clipper mechanismand pivots with the clipper mechanism to reside below the netting priorto the severing step.

Still other embodiments are directed to methods of shaping a foodproduct. The methods include: (a) automatically pushing at least oneobject through a product chute using an actuator driven pushermechanism, the product chute sized and configured to compress a foodproduct as the food product moves through the product chute withsufficient force to cause the food product to have a desired shape asthe food product exits the product chute; (b) pulling netting materialoff an exterior surface of the product chute to automatically enclosethe object in the netting material as the object exits the productchute; and then (c) applying at least one clip to the netting materialto secure the object in the netting material.

The pushing can include automatically extending a pusher head into theproduct chute to contact the object and force the object through theproduct chute and then retracting the pusher head from the productchute. The applying a clip may include automatically gathering thecovering material together and applying at least one clip to thegathered covering material. In particular embodiments, the applying stepcan include applying two proximately positioned but longitudinallyspaced apart clips substantially concurrently to the gathered coveringmaterial.

In some embodiments, the gathered covering material is netting thatwraps about a bone-in, semi, half or whole ham.

Other embodiments are directed to clipper assemblies. The assembliesinclude: (a) a clipper mechanism having a clipper body configured todeliver clips to a clip window and attach the clips to a gatheredportion of casing material, the clipper mechanism having an automatedstroke cycle that includes a retracted home position and a laterallyextended fall-clip position; and (b) a cutting member attached to alower portion of the clipper mechanism, wherein the cutting membertravels with the clipper mechanism during the automated stroke cycle,and wherein, in operation, the cutting member is configured to travelgenerally upwardly to sever a gathered casing material from a bottom totop portion thereof.

The cutting member may be automatically actuated to rise to sever thegathered casing material after (but proximate in time to when) at leastone clip is applied to the gathered casing material. The automatedstroke cycle full clip position can be such that the clip window isgenerally aligned with an axial centerline of a product travel path(typically defined by the axial centerline of a product chute upstreamof the cutting member).

In particular embodiments, the clipper assemblies may also include aproximity sensor mounted to the cartridge to provide data to control thetiming of the actuation of the cylinder to automatically controllablyadvance the cutting member (that may be configured as a generally planarknife blade) to sever the netting. The clipper can include spaced apartgathering plates with a first gathering plate disposed downstream of asecond gathering plate. The first gathering plate can include a cuttingmember guide channel that is sized and configured to slidably receivethe cutting member therein.

Some embodiments are directed to automatic pivotable clipper mechanismsfor attaching closure clips to product held in a covering material. Themechanisms include: (a) a clipper body; (b) a curvilinear clip railattached to the clipper body having opposing top and bottom end portionsand defining a generally downwardly extending clip feed direction; (c) aclip entry window in communication with the bottom end portion of theclip rail and a clip closure delivery path in communication with a punchmechanism that is adapted to wrap a clip from the clip rail about atarget work piece; (d) a first clip pusher configured to selectivelyengage with clips held on the clip rail to force the clips in the feeddirection; (e) a first clipper gathering plate attached to the clipperbody on a first side of the clip entry window, the first clippergathering plate configured to extend a distance below the clip rail andgenerally outwardly therefrom toward a target covering material; (f) asecond clipper gathering plate attached to the clipper body on anopposing side of the clip entry window downstream of the first clippergathering plate so as to be spaced apart from the first clippergathering plate, the second clipper gathering plate configured to extenda distance below the clip rail and generally outwardly therefrom towardthe target covering material; and (g) a cutting member attached to alower portion of the clipper body. In operation, the cutting member cutsfrom bottom to top and the clipper mechanism pivots from a rest positionto an active clipping position and the first and second clippergathering plates and cutting member move generally in concert with theclipper mechanism.

Still other embodiments are directed to product pusher assemblies forpushing product through a product chute that dispenses covering materialfrom an outer surface thereof. The assemblies include: a pusher headhaving a forward portion with a pin extending outwardly therefrom, thepusher head configured and sized to enter into the product chute andpush an object undergoing packaging through the product chute; and apusher actuation cylinder attached to the pusher head assembly to directthe pusher head assembly to automatically and controllably repetitivelytravel back and forth between a downstream position and an upstreamposition.

Yet other embodiments are directed to computer program products foroperating a clipper mechanism. The computer program product includes acomputer readable storage medium having computer readable program codeembodied in the medium. The computer-readable program code includingcomputer readable program code that controllably actuates a knifeactuation cylinder to direct the knife to rise up to cut from a bottomto top direction and then retracts the knife.

The computer program product can also include computer readable programcode that automatically controllably actuates an automated handle makerto generate a handle from netting and/or computer readable program codethat allows a user to select left hand or right hand operation of eitherthe clipping mechanism and/or the handle maker (where operationalsequence or direction is different based on the mounting configuration).

In other embodiments the same program control sequence can be used tooperate the right or left handed operation of either or both of thehandle maker and/or clipping mechanism.

These and other objects and/or aspects of the present invention areexplained in detail in the specification set forth below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus/system used toautomatically advance objects through a product chute and thenautomatically apply at least one clip according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1, illustrated withthe housing guards removed according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1, illustrated withthe housing guards removed according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is a left-hand “downstream-end” view of the device shown in FIG.1, illustrated with the housing guards removed according to embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the product pusher cylinder assemblyaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a greatly enlarged left-hand (downstream-end) view of theassembly shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B with the pusher plate and couplerremoved according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a front view of a transfer region of the apparatus shown inFIG. 1 according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6B is a top view of the transfer region shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a left-hand (downstream-end) view of the conveyor in thetransfer region according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a clipper voider handle maker (“CVH”)module that can form a part of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 accordingto embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the CVH module shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the CVH module shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the CVH module shown in FIG. 7,illustrated without the housing guards according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 10B is an opposite side view (downstream-end) of the CVH moduleshown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is an upstream side view (product flow direction is into paper)of a clipper module with a voider mechanism to define a voider clippermodule (VC module) according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 11B is a back view of the module shown in FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C illustrates the clipper module shown in FIG. 11A with thevoiders closed and the clipper in a clip position.

FIG. 11D is a perspective view of the module shown in FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11E is a top view of the module shown in FIG. 11A illustrating thevoider members separated according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a clipper module, shown without anoptional handle maker, according to other embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the VC module shown in FIG. 12A,illustrated without housing guards.

FIG. 12C is a perspective view of an alternative interchangeabledischarge tray and/or table according to embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12D is a view looking upstream of an exemplary discharge table withholding flaps disposed downstream of a netting chute according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 13A is a rear view of the VC module shown in FIG. 12B.

FIG. 13B is a front view of the VC module shown in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 13C is a right hand (upstream-end) view of the VC module shown inFIG. 13A.

FIG. 13D is a left hand (downstream-end) view of the VC module shown inFIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a chute/pusher frame module with acontrol box that can be configured to selectively engage CV or CVHmodules according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a clipper module according toembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15B is a front view of the clipper module shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C is a side view of the clipper module shown in FIG. 15A,

FIG. 16 is a greatly enlarged opposite side view of the clipper moduleshown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 17 is a greatly enlarged left-hand perspective view of the cuttingmember attached to the clipper module according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 18 is a right-hand view of the cutting member and clipper moduleshown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart of operations that can be carried out accordingto embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a data processing system/computer programaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying figures, in which embodiments of theinvention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein. Like numbers refer to like elementsthroughout. In the figures, certain layers, components or features maybe exaggerated for clarity, and broken lines illustrate optionalfeatures or operations, unless specified otherwise. In addition, thesequence of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presentedin the claims unless specifically indicated otherwise. Where used, theterms “attached”, “connected”, “contacting”, “coupling” and the like,can mean either directly or indirectly, unless stated otherwise. Theterm “concurrently” means that the operations are carried outsubstantially simultaneously.

In the description of the present invention that follows, certain termsare employed to refer to the positional relationship of certainstructures relative to other structures. As used herein, the terms“front,” “forward” and derivatives thereof refer to the general orprimary direction that a target product travels for enclosure and/orclipping; this term is intended to be synonymous with the term“downstream,” which is often used in manufacturing or material flowenvironments to indicate that certain material traveling or being actedupon is farther along in that process than other material. Conversely,the terms “rearward,” “upstream” and derivatives thereof refer to thedirections opposite, respectively, the forward and downstreamdirections.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will befurther understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art andshould not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unlessexpressly so defined herein.

The term “frame” means a generally skeletal structure used to supportone or more assemblies, modules and/or components. The term “modular”means that a subassembly is designed with standardized dimensions,mounting features and/or configurations for interchangeable use withreplacement modules of the same or similar type and/or other selecteddifferent modules. The frame and selected modules may also be configuredfor selectable mounting on a right or left hand side of a common frame.

Embodiments of the present invention provide modules 40 m configuredwith a frame 40 f (FIG. 10A) that allows a clipper 40 to mount to eitherthe right or left hand side (40R, 40L respectively) of the frame 40 fand/or to allow the selective assembly of a handle maker 60 (as shown bythe module 40 m of FIG. 7) or not (shown by the module 40 m′ of FIG.12A). The right and left hand sides 40R, 40L of the frame 40 f aredefined with respect to the location of the product primary travel path,so that the right hand side 40R of the frame 40 f extends from agenerally medial position above and/or below the product travel path andrightward therefrom, while the left hand side 40L of the frame 40 fextends from a generally medial position above and/or below the producttravel path and leftward therefrom. Thus, it will be understood that theright side 40R of the frame 40 f is not limited to the rightmost portionof the frame structure and the left side 40L of the frame 40 f is notlimited to the leftmost portion of the frame structure.

It is also noted that different mounting orientation configurations ofthe modules and/or apparatus are shown in the figures. For example, FIG.1 illustrates the clipper 40 mounted on one side of the frame 40 f, butother views may have the clipper 40 on the other side of the frame 40 fand/or in the front or back of the module 40, 40 m. Thus, the figuresmay show certain of the devices in different views with differentmounting configurations and the views in different figures do notnecessarily correspond to a common or single mounting arrangement asdifferent views may have certain components and/or devices orienteddifferently.

The present invention is particularly suitable for applying closureclips to discrete objects held in a covering material. The coveringmaterial may be natural or synthetic and may be a casing material thatcan be sealed about a product or may be netting. The casing can be anysuitable casing (edible or inedible, natural or synthetic) such as, butnot limited to, collagen, cellulose, plastic, elastomeric or polymericcasing. In certain embodiments, the casing comprises netting. The term“netting” refers to any open mesh material in any form including, forexample, knotted, braided, extruded, stamped, knitted, woven orotherwise. Typically, the netting is configured so as to be stretchablein both axial and lateral directions.

Netting or other covering material may be used to package discrete meatproducts such as loaves of meat, boned ham, spiral sliced ham, debonedham, turkey, turkey loaves held in molds, or other meat or itemsdirectly or with the items held in subcontainers and/or wraps such asmolds, trays, boxes, bags, absorbent or protective sheets, sealant, cansand the like. Other embodiments of the present invention may be directedto package other types of food such as cheese, bread, fruit, vegetables,and the like, as well as non-food items. Examples of non-food items thatmay be packaged using embodiments of the present invention includeliving items such as flora, trees, and the like, as well as inanimateobjects. Additional examples of products include discrete, semi-solid orsolid objects such as firewood, pet food (typically held in a containerif the wet type), recreational objects (such as balls), or other solidor semi-solid objects. The product may be packaged for any suitableindustry including horticulture, aquaculture, agriculture, or other foodindustry, environmental, chemical, explosive, or other application.Netting may be particularly useful to package ham or turkeys,manufactured hardware such as automotive parts, firewood, explosives,molded products, and other industrial, consumable, and/or commodityitem(s).

Generally stated, embodiments of the present invention are directed atautomating the packaging of piece goods or discrete items by forcingthem through a product chute and wrapping or enveloping the objects atthe other end of the chute in a covering material, such as netting, thenautomatically or semi-automatically clipping the covering material witha closure clip or other attachment means to close the covering and holdthe object or objects inside of the covering material. As noted above,clippers are available from Tipper Tie, Inc., of Apex, N.C. Examples ofsuitable clips include metallic generally “U”-shaped clips availablefrom Tipper Tie, Inc., in Apex, N.C. Other clips, clip materials andclip configurations or closure means may also be used.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary automatic clipping packaging apparatus10 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown, theapparatus 10 includes a product pusher assembly or mechanism 20, aproduct chute 30, and a clipper 40. It is noted that the clipper 40 maybe referred to herein as a clipper apparatus, clipper module, clippermechanism, and/or clipper assembly, but each term may be usedinterchangeably with the others. As shown, the apparatus 10 mayoptionally include an infeed conveyor 50. Optionally, the apparatus 10may also include a handle maker 60. FIG. 1 illustrates the apparatus 10with examples of housing guards 11 disposed over certain functionalcomponents. FIGS. 2-4 illustrate the apparatus 10 without the housingguards 11.

In the embodiment shown, the apparatus 10 can be described as ahorizontal automatic clipping packaging apparatus as the product isprimarily moved, processed, clipped and packaged in a horizontal plane.However, certain components, features or operations may be orientedand/or carried out in other planes or directions and the presentinvention is not limited thereto. For example, the product chute 30and/or the conveyor 50 may be configured to incline. The arrow in FIG. 2indicates the primary direction of product flow, toward the productchute 30 and clipper 40. In addition, although the downstream direction10 d is shown as in a direction that extends from right to left (withthe upstream direction 10 u) in the opposing direction, the apparatus 10can be oriented to run left to right or in a direction that is in or outof the paper.

FIGS. 1-4 also illustrate a human machine interface (“HMI”) station 55that houses operational switches or components that an operator canaccess to operate the apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 includes a producttransfer zone 65, which is the location where a product (or products) ispositioned, intermediate the product pusher assembly 20 (in theretracted position) and the product chute 30, and substantially alignedwith the internal cavity 30 c (FIG. 4) of the product chute 30. Thispositioning of the product in the flow path and/or alignment with theproduct chute cavity 30 c can be carried out substantially automaticallyas will be discussed further below. However, a target product undergoingpackaging can also be manually introduced or placed into the flow pathand subsequently processed.

In operation, the product pusher assembly 20 linearly retracts andadvances to push a product through the product chute 30 so that theproduct is positioned proximate the clipper 40, then retracts to aresting state upstream of the product transfer zone 65. As describedabove, a sleeve of covering material (designated at 31 in FIG. 1) can bepositioned about the external surface of the product chute 30 andconfigured to be drawn downstream thereof so as to automatically encasethe product as the product emerges from the discharge end 30 d of theproduct chute 30. A supplemental sleeve material holder may also be usedif desired instead of placing the sleeve of casing material on theproduct chute. The supplemental sleeve holder can be configured tosurround a downstream portion of the product chute 30. The sleeve ofcovering material may be sized to stretch to substantially conform tothe external wall or surface of the product chute 30 or may be moreloosely held thereon. The cavity 30 c of the product chute 30 may besized to snugly contact or squeeze opposing portions of the product(side to side and/or top to bottom) as the product is pushedtherethrough or may be oversized with respect to the product so that theproduct loosely travels therethrough.

In operation, the sleeve of covering material may be clipped, welded,fused, knotted or otherwise closed and sealed at a leading edge portionthereof. When the product exits the product chute 30, it is held in thecovering material as the covering material is drawn downstream. Thecovering material may be loaded onto the product chute 30 and theleading edge portion thereof closed before the product chute 30 ismounted to the apparatus 10.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the product pusher mechanism or assembly 20has a pusher head 20 h that contacts the product and pushes the productdownstream through the product chute 30. After the product exits theproduct chute 30, the downstream portion or leading edge of the productin the covering material can be held in position proximate the clipper40. In certain embodiments, the product can be held by a retractableproduct holding member disposed downstream of the clipper 40 to inhibitthe product from migrating downstream, thereby holding the product inthe covering material between the product holding member and thedischarge end of the product chute 30 during the clipping operation. Asshown in FIG. 3, the apparatus 10 can include a discharge tray 66 thatreceives the clipped and packaged product after clipping. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 2, the tray 66 comprises a floor of rollers.Other discharge tray configurations may also be used.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate that the discharge end portion of the productchute 30 can be positioned proximate and upstream of the clipper 40. Theproduct pusher assembly 20 has a pusher head 20 h that is adapted tocontact the product. As shown, in FIG. 4, the pusher head 20 h may beconfigured to substantially fill the entire cross-sectional width of theproduct chute cavity 30 c as the pusher head 20 h approaches and/orexits the discharge portion of the product chute 30 d. The clipper 40 isconfigured to reside in a retracted position out of the product travelregion to allow the enclosed product to pass unimpeded until the productrests against the product-holding member 75 (FIG. 12D).

As shown in FIGS. 4, 11A and 12B, the clipper 40 can be pivotablymounted 40 p to a frame 40 f and sized and configured to automaticallyand controllably actuate (via a pneumatic or fluid cylinder) to advanceinto a clipping position after the product is in position downstreamthereof, then clip the covering material and retract to await to clipthe next covering material for the next enclosed product. The clipper 40may operate in response to data from a proximity sensor that ispositioned to detect when a product is ready for clipping and providethe data to a controller or processor. The proximity sensor may bepositioned at any suitable place to indicate when the product is inposition. The proximity sensor can be an optical sensor (infrared,photosensor, or the like), a hall-effect sensor, a magnetic sensor, aninductive sensor, and/or any other suitable sensor. The clipper 40 canbe attached to a clipper rotation rotary actuator that can control themovement of the clipper 40 during use.

In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 10A and 11A-11E,the apparatus 10 may include a voiding mechanism 69 (also known as avoider) that cooperates with the clipper mechanism 40 and handle maker60 (where used) to help gather and “void” the casing or coveringmaterial prior to clipping. The voiding mechanism 69 can include a pairof spaced apart plates 69 p ₁, 69 p ₂ that can move together and apart,each with a window that converges upon the covering material that isheld in tension therethrough, to force excess product out of theclipping area/volume as is well known to those of skill in the art. FIG.11A illustrates the clipper 40 in a home position (generally upright)and the voider plates 69 p ₁ (FIG. 11B), 69 p ₂ (FIGS. 11A and 11B) openand ready to accept a target product (the product flows or travels intothe page). FIG. 11B is a back view of the module 40 m′ that shows thevoider plates in position. The upstream plate 69 p ₁, may be fixed inthe product flow direction but is typically configured to move up anddown. The downstream plate 69 p ₂ can move toward and away from theupstream plate 69 p ₁ (in the longitudinal direction). The tray 66 maybe inclined during product entry with the flap or trapping members openas shown. The tray 66 will be discussed further below. FIG. 11Cillustrates the clipper 40 in a clip position and the voider 69 closed(i.e., the plates 69 p ₁ and 69 p ₂ are converged). FIG. 11D alsoillustrates the clipper 40 in a clip position with the voider plates 69p ₁, 69 p ₂ closed and separated. FIG. 11E illustrates the voider plates69 p ₁, 69 p ₂ longitudinally spaced apart and separated to define avoider space 69 sp.

The voider or voiding mechanism 69 helps to provide a tighter clippedpackage. In addition, the pusher mechanism 20 is not required to exitthe chute 30, particularly when a voider 69 is employed, and yet stillcan provide a tight encased package. The handle maker 60 (where used),the voider 69 and the brakes 90 can all contribute to the tension of thecovering (e.g., netting) and thus the tightness of the package about theproduct.

In some embodiments, the clipper mechanism 40 can operate with anautomatic stroke cycle that comprises three dwell positions: a firstretracted home position; a second pre-clip position; and a thirdclipping position. When in the home position, the clipper body isretracted out of the product travel path (typically pivoted outward andupward). In the third clipping position, the clipper travels inward andis generally oriented substantially vertically with the clip windowdisposed in the product travel path, typically so that the axialcenterline of the product chute 30 is generally aligned with the clipwindow (not shown). In certain embodiments, the second position of theclipper mechanism 40 can be between about 50-75% of the stroke distancebetween the first and third clipper mechanism positions, typically atabout 75% of the stroke distance. The travel from the first home to thesecond pre-clip position can be carried out as the product is exitingthe product chute 30 to save the cycle time that it would take to clipthe product while waiting for the clipper to travel the full “home toclip position” cycle. For example, where a handle maker 60 is used (thehandle maker being an optional device and/or operation), the clippermechanism 40 can advance from the home to the pre-clip second positionduring the handle-making operation. It is noted that the dwell times ineach position can be different. The home dwell time may have the longestduration in any stroke cycle.

As shown in FIGS. 13A and 15A-15C, the clipper mechanism 40 can includean actuation cylinder 140 that controllably and serially advances theclipper mechanism from the first (home) position, to the second(pre-clip) position, and the third (full clip) position, then back tothe pre-clip or first (home) position. In certain embodiments, as shownin FIGS. 15A-15C, the clipper 40 includes an integrated double twostroke cylinder 140 with upper and lower cylinder rods 140 r ₁, 140 r ₂.The stroke length of the upper rod 140 r ₁ may be shorter than thestroke length of the lower rod 140 r ₂. As shown in FIG. 15A, the lowerrod 140 r ₂ extends a greater distance than the upper rod 140 r ₁ in thehome position. In the full clip position, both cylinder rods 140 r ₁,140 r ₂ can be in a retracted. FIG. 15B illustrates the clipper in anexemplary pre-clip or intermediate dwell position. The lower rod 140 r ₂can be extended a greater distance than the upper rod 140 r ₁ at thehome configuration as shown in FIG. 15A.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate that the product pusher assembly 20 caninclude a product pusher cylinder 21 and two product pusher guide rods22, 23, respectively. The product pusher guide rods 22, 23 can bepositioned on opposing sides of the pusher cylinder 21 and help tostabilize (i.e., provide an anti-rotation structure) for the pusher head20 h as the pusher head 20 h travels, particularly when it travelsoutside the product chute 30. As shown, the product pusher assembly 20can include a coupler 20 c that can attach the pusher head 20 h. FIG. 5Cshows the pusher assembly 20 with the pusher head 20 h (FIG. 2) andcoupler 20 c (FIG. 5B) removed, illustrating the guide tubes 22 t, 23 tthat are in communication with the guide rods 22, 23.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the pusher assembly 20 can include at leastone, (illustrated herein as two), 3-way power valves 20 v, onepositioned on each end portion of the cylinder 21. The product pusherassembly 20 can also include at least one pressure regulator and an airsource in communication with the cylinder 21. In operation, the pressureregulator can allow the cylinder 21 to operate at up to about 80 psi(653 lb_(f)). The cylinder 21 may be operated at a substantiallyconstant fixed pressure of between about 50-80 psi. In certainembodiments, the pressure is maintained at about 80 psi to allow thepusher 20 to push the product through the chute 30 even when the productis slightly oversized, thereby shaping the product as it travels throughthe chute 30. The bore size of the cylinder 21 may be about 3.25 inches.This shaping may be particularly suitable for whole or partial hams,including bone-in hams, as such a shaping operation may form increasednumbers of center slices.

As shown in FIG. 14, a control housing 155 can hold system valves,pressure transducers, actuator controls, a processor that directs theautomated operations of the apparatus 10 which may also be held in totalor partially in the HMI 55 and other electronic, software and/ormechanical equipment as will be understood by one of skill in the art.The HMI 55 may include a touch screen interface/user input.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate that the product transfer zone 65 that can havea ceiling or lid 65 c that overlies the floor 65 f and a sensor 61 (FIG.6B) held above the floor 65 f (typically in the ceiling 65 c). In FIGS.2 and 6A, the product pusher assembly 20 is shown retracted with thepusher head 20 h upstream of the product chute 30. The ceiling 65 c(FIG. 1) may be pivotably mounted to the frame of the apparatus 10 toallow an operator easier access to the transport zone 65 for clearingmisfeeds and the like. The sensor 61 (FIG. 6B) can be an ultrasonicsensor configured to identify when a product is in a suitable deployableposition in the underlying space of the product transfer zone 65. Thisdata can be fed to a controller that can then timely activate theactuation cylinder 21 to advance the product pusher assembly 20. Inoperation, if an expected product is not delivered to the producttransfer zone 65 within a predetermined time, a timing circuit(typically included in the machine control logic program code) canautomatically stop the infeed conveyor 50. An operator can restart theapparatus 10 by depressing the start pushbutton.

FIGS. 6A and 6B also show a stop member 65 s that can move toward theconveyor 50 to help align the incoming product on the primary travelpath, so that the center of the product is generally aligned and in linewith the axial centerline of the product chute 30. The stop member 65 scan be moved in and out (as shown by the arrow in FIG. 6B) in responseto when product is determined to be in position in the transfer zone 65,such as via direction of the controller based on a signal from theproximity sensor 61. FIG. 6C shows that the stop plate 65 s can be incommunication with at least one (shown as two) adjuster rods 65 r toallow the apparatus 10 to adjust the position and/or travel distance toaccommodate different size in-feed conveyors 50 as well as differentsized chutes 30 and/or products. FIG. 6A also illustrates that a housingguard 65 g may be positioned in the transfer zone 65 on the other sideof the stop member 65 s.

FIG. 2 illustrates a product 180 on the floor 50 f of the conveyor 50and positioned in the product transfer zone 65. The product 180 isstopped by the product stop plate 65 s from progressing out of alignmentwith the outer perimeter of the chute 30 so that the product is incommunication with the inlet portion of the chute 30 and so that theproduct pusher assembly 20 will be able to push the product 180 axiallydownstream through the product chute 30 substantially about the chuteaxis 30 a.

It is noted that in lieu of and/or with the conveyor 50, other movingfloors or product advancement systems may be used (for example, rollers,rolling bars, belts or drives that advance trays or other supportmembers and the like). In addition, the moving floor may be angularlyoriented to travel up, down, or otherwise to advance the product to theproduct transfer zone 65. In addition, the apparatus 10 can include anautomated continuous advancement system with discrete product(s)separated at desired intervals on the moving floor to serially introduceproduct for packaging to the chute 30. In certain embodiments, themoving floor can include partitions, channels, or other spacerconfigurations to hold the product(s) in desired alignment on the movingfloor so that, when the proximity sensor indicates the product ispresent, the partition or channel provides the desired product stop.

For groups of objects, manual or automated bins or feeders canaccumulate the desired amount of grouped objects upstream and place themtogether on the moving floor (not shown). In other embodiments, anautomated counter can be used to count the number of products that passa target location or enter the transfer zone 65 so that a desired numberof products are accumulated in the transfer zone 65 and activate theproduct pusher assembly 20 (not shown). The conveyor 50 and chute 30 maybe configured to have a gap or bridge space therebetween, depending onthe size of the conveyor 50. In certain particular embodiments, a gapspace of about 2.5 inches extends in the axial direction between theconveyor 50 and the chute 30.

As shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus 10 may include another sensor 31positioned proximate the receiving end of the product chute 30. Thesensor 31 is configured to confirm that the product chute 30 is inoperative position. When a product 180 is detected in the transfer zone65, the activation of the product pusher assembly 20 may also be basedon whether the product chute 30 is determined to be in proper positionusing data from the sensor 31, typically positioned on the frame 10 fthereat. An exemplary sensor 31 is a two-part magnetic switch; one partcan be positioned on a mounting bracket 31 b attached to a chute bracket30 b as shown in FIG. 3 and the other part held on the mounting frame 10f. When the two matable parts of the switch 31 engage, the chute 30 isdetermined to be in proper position. Other types and/or additionalsensors may also be used as suitable as is known to those of skill inthe art.

A controller/processor (such as a Programmable Logic Controller) may beconfigured to monitor a signal from this sensor 31 and deactivate theproduct pusher assembly 20 (release cylinder pressure) automaticallywhenever a product chute 30 position-error is noted at any time duringthe process. The signal can be automatically monitored through a SafetyCircuit Module. If the product chute 30 is missing or out of position,the apparatus 10 can be held in a low energy state that removes power toair supplies and controls to inhibit machine operation. To reinitiatethe procedure, an operator may press a restart or reset button. Incertain embodiments, the clipper 40 may be operated on override evenwhen the chute 30 is absent. Once the product chute 30 is in locationand the stop is reset, power air can be applied to the machine controlvalves and electric power can be applied to the control (PLC) outputs.After the PLC determines the positions of the moveable components, suchas the product pusher assembly 20, the clipper 40, the product holdingmember and the like, an automatic reset can be performed and thosecomponents automatically moved to a respective home position as needed.

As shown in FIG. 4, the HMI 55 can include an input display screen, anemergency stop button 56, a reset button and a clipper only activationbutton. The HMI can also include a pressure regulator for correspondinggages. The pressure regulators can be for the retractable productholding member on a discharge tray (which may be described as a productclamp bar), and/or for a retractable brake system 90 (FIG. 10),typically used to selectively apply brake pressure to the coveringmaterial proximate the discharge end portion of the product chute 30.

The apparatus 10 may be configured to allow the clipper 40 to operateirrespective of the upstream devices using the clipper-only push buttoninstead of the apparatus-start push button. The HMI 55 can also includean emergency stop 56 and reset pushbutton or other type of switch asshown.

FIG. 6B also illustrates that the pusher head 20 h can be configuredwith a product pusher plate 20 p that is adapted to contact the product180 (such as food) as the pusher assembly 20 extends forward. The pusherhead 20 h can also include axially extending guidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w ₂.The pusher head 20 h can be sized and configured to substantially fillthe chute cavity 30 c to thereby inhibit objects from attempting tomigrate downstream during the pushing operation. The pusher plate 20 pis shown in FIG. 6B as a forward portion adapted to contact the productwhich, when viewed from the top, comprises side portions that angularlyconverge to a recessed medial planar portion shape; other configurationsand shapes may also be used as will be discussed further below. Theshape of the product-contacting portion 20 p of the pusher head 20 h mayinfluence the orientation (typically the attitude) of the product insidethe netting as it exits the chute 30. FIG. 6B also illustrates theassembly 20 and/or the product pusher head 20 h in a home or restingposition. The pusher head 20 h may include a forward plow configurationto help center the product (such as a bone-in ham product). The plow mayhave a width of about 5 inches. FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate that thepusher head 20 h may include a forward outwardly extending piercingmember 20 m such as a nail, blade, pin, or other sharp implement thatcan pierce a rearward portion of the product to help keep the product inalignment as it is pushed through the chute 30. As such, the apparatus10 can employ a removing member that can be positioned to cooperate withthe chute to remove the member prior to clipping (not shown).

In some embodiments, the product pusher mechanism 20 is configured tolimit the travel of the pusher head 20 h so that at least a portion ofthe pusher head 20 h remains inside the product chute 30 at afurthermost operative extension position (extended position) of theproduct pusher mechanism 20. In other embodiments, the forward portionof the pusher head 20 h passes out of the chute 30 downstream of thegathering plates while in still other embodiments, the pusher head 20 hstops short of the downstream most gathering plate (the gathering plateswill be discussed further below). In operation, the pusher head 20 h isconfigured to push the product from the discharge end of the chute 20 dso that the covering material extends a sufficient distance therefrom toallow an automated clipping operation to be carried out.

Referring to FIG. 6B, as described above, the product pusher mechanism20 comprises a pair of spaced apart elongate guidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w ₂positioned on opposing sides of the forward portion of the pusher head20 h to help guide the pusher head 20 h in the product chute 30. Theguidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w ₂ may have a length that is less than the lengthof the product chute 30. The guidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w ₂ may each connect(directly or indirectly) to a guide rod 23, 22, respectively. Theguiderods 22, 23 may be symmetrically arranged with respect to theintermediately located pusher cylinder 21. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, and5A, the product pusher assembly 20 can operate using a fluid-actuatedcylinder 21 (typically a pneumatic cylinder) that is longitudinallymounted on the apparatus 10 and extends in the axial direction. Thecenterline of the cylinder 21 may be aligned with the product chutecenterline 30. The two guide rods 22, 23 can be stainless steel guiderods mounted in a linear ball bearing block assembly. As noted above,the guide rods 22, 23 can act as an anti-rotation stabilizer for theproduct pusher assembly 20 and/or help guide the head 20 h to travel ina substantially straight line through the product chute 30 as the head20 h travels repetitively through extended and retracted configurations.

Referring to FIG. 6B, the guidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w ₂ and/or the forwardportion 20 p of the pusher head 20 h may be formed of and/or coated witha non-stick material (and/or lubricant) such as TEFLON. In particularembodiments, such as for packaging of meat, the guidewalls 20 w ₁, 20 w₂ may be formed of acetyl while the forward portion 20 p can be formedof stainless steel.

The conveyor system 50 may include a DELRIN conveyor floor support, beltdrive sprockets, air motor and gear box that can automatically advancethe conveyor floor. The conveyor floor material may be an open mesh,interlocking material, such as an interlaced composite material.Generally stated, in the embodiment shown, the conveyor floor is drivenby a series of sprockets that engage the weave and/or underside of theconveyor floor. A radial piston air motor drives the conveyor floorthrough a speed reduction gearbox. Power is transmitted to the conveyordrive roller via a chain and sprocket configuration.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the product chute 30 held on amounting bracket and attached to the frame 10 f. As shown, the productchute 30 can be an elongate product chute. The product chute 30 caninclude a larger front-end cavity area 30 a (shown as a funnel-likeshape) relative to the intermediate and/or discharging portion 30 d,i.e., the chute cavity 30 c narrows in the pushing/product traveldirection. Thus, the product chute 30 can include a primary body and alarger upstream guide portion that narrows into the shape of the primarybody. The chute 30 may be formed as a unitary member or a series ofattached members (not shown). The chute 30 can include a lifting handle30 h (FIGS. 2 and 3) to facilitate removal and installation. Inoperation, a supply of covering material 130 (see, e.g., FIG. 1) can beplaced on or about the chute 30, arranged to surround the exteriorsurface of at least a portion of the product chute 30 and extend intension in the downstream direction to cover the product(tenting/tensioning in the axial direction) as the product exits thedischarge end portion of the product chute 30 d. In certain embodiments,the covering material is configured and sized to stretch in at least thelateral direction and typically in both the lateral and axial directionsas it is held on and dispensed from the product chute 30.

The product chute floor may be a stationary floor with an anti-stickcoating or material. It is also noted that the product chute 30 mayinclude a moving floor such as those types described above with respectto the infeed floor configurations. The chute 30 may be sized relativeto the product 180 so that the product 180 extends across a majorportion of the width of the cavity, and in certain embodiments, extendsacross at least about 75% of the width of the cavity. In certainembodiments, the product 180 and chute cavity 30 c are sized so that thesides and/or top and bottom of the product 180 are pressed against thesidewalls of the cavity as the product is pushed therethrough. Theproduct chute 30 may comprise stainless steel and be coated with afriction reducing material such as TEFLON polymer. Lubricants may alsobe disposed on the inner surface(s) of the product chute 30.

In certain embodiments, the product chute 30 has a cross-sectionalprofile that is non-circular. The product chute 30 may be configuredwith a planar top and/or bottom portion and semi-circular side portions.Other cross-sectional profile configurations may also be used including,but not limited to, circular, oval, triangular, rectangular, square andthe like.

As shown in FIG. 14, the mounting bracket 30 b can be configured torelatively easily attach to and be removed from the frame of theapparatus 10 so as to be releasably mountable thereto. The mountingbracket 30 b can hold the product chute 30 in alignment with the clippermechanism 40 downstream and the product pusher mechanism 20 upstream. Asshown in FIG. 14, an alligator clip can be used in combination with asensor 130 s to clip to a trailing edge of the covering material andtrip a switch to automatically monitor and alert when the coveringmaterial is low and/or may need replaced. In certain embodiments, thesystem 10 can include a first product chute and a respective firstmounting bracket 30 b and a second product chute 30 releasably mountableto the apparatus frame 10 at the same position (interchangeable chutes)using a respective second mounting bracket 30 b that can be configuredsubstantially the same as the first mounting bracket 30 b. In otherembodiments, the product chute 30 can be lifted off of the mountingbracket 30 b (leaving the mounting bracket in place) and another chute30 placed thereon. The second product chute may be sized and configuredthe same as the first product chute 30 and loaded with a second supplyof covering material. The covering material may be the same as that ofthe first product chute or different. Thus, the respective first andsecond mounting brackets 30 b can be configured as quick disconnectcomponents (merely loosening and/or releasing attachment hardware) toallow the first and second product chutes 30 to be interchanged on thesystem 10 in under 5 minutes, and more typically in under about 2minutes, to allow an operator to employ at least one of a different sizeproduct chute, a different configuration product chute, differentpackaging material dispensed by the product chute.

In other embodiments, a plurality of chutes 30 can be mounted on asliding or movable track that can serially move a selected chute out ofand/or into the operative position (not shown). The plurality of chutes30 may be positioned side to side or above and below each other(vertically stacked), mounted on a carousel, or the like so as toautomatically move into and out of position. In operation, an operatoror an autoloader can place a sleeve of covering material on one or morechutes 30, select the order of presentation (based on the type ofproduct being dispensed and/or the type of covering material desired),and proceed to move the chutes serially into operative position so as tobe aligned with the product pusher assembly 20 and the clipper 40. Inthis manner, the apparatus 10 can be preloaded or reloaded with coveringmaterial limiting any downtime associated therewith.

FIGS. 7-9 and 12A illustrate a downstream module 40 m which can be adiscrete portion of the apparatus 10 according to certain embodiments ofthe present invention. FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate the module 40 mshown in FIGS. 7-9 with housing guards 11 removed and FIGS. 12B, 13A-13Dillustrate the module 40 m′ shown in FIG. 12A with the guards 11removed. When the handle maker 60 is not assembled, a planar housingsidewall 11 s can be used to close the module 40 m as shown in FIG. 12A.

As described above, the handle maker 60 and frame 40 f can also beconfigured to allow the handle maker 60 (as well as the clipper 40) tomount to either the left or right hand side 40L, 40R, respectively, ofthe frame 40 f (and primary product travel path) with their respectivehousing guards 11 likewise mountable to either side. Typically, thehandle maker 60 (where used) will mount to a different opposing side ofthe frame 40 f from the clipper 40. An example of a suitablehandle-maker is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,102, the contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.

The frame 40 f can have pre-formed apertures, brackets, or otherstructures or members that can allow the clipper 40 and/or handle maker60 to mount to the desired side of the frame 40 f without customizingthe frame for a particular customer. The clipper 40 will typically mountto a top portion of the frame 40 f in a manner that allows the clipper40 to dynamically retract and advance into clipping position asdiscussed above. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 12A, the clipper40 is mounted to an upper portion of the right hand side of the frame 40f using a coupler member 240. In operation the clipper 40 moves inwardto a desired clip location. The coupler member 240 can alternatively beassembled to the upper portion of the left hand side of the frame 40 fallowing the clipper 40 to move inward to the same operative location.The frame 40 f and the clipper 40 and/or handle maker 60 are alsomodular to be able to provide several build options so as to beassembled to the desired side of the frame during manufacturing assemblyto meet a customer's order without customizing each component for eachcustomer. This will allow a decrease in labor, less single-purposeinventory, and/or faster build cycles. For example, a modular frame 40 fmay have additional apertures over specific use frames. Unused aperturesmay be sealed, filled or closed for sanitary reasons, such as withfasteners or plugs.

In any event, the modules 40 m, 40 m′ are arranged to align with thechute 30 such that the discharge end portion of the product chute 30 dterminates proximate the clipper 40. The modules 40 m, 40 m′ areconfigured to hold the clipper 40 so that the clip window 140 w (FIG.17) can be generally axially aligned with a desired axial location ofthe product travel path in the full clip position (see the centerlinelocation illustrated in FIG. 8), typically the axial centerline of thechute 30, irrespective of whether the clipper 40 is mounted to the rightor left hand side of the frame 40 f.

As described above, the apparatus 10 can include a brake assembly withbrake gripping members 90 (FIG. 10). FIG. 10 illustrates the grippingmembers 90 are housed in the clipper module 40 m, 40 m′ and, inposition, reside adjacent the sidewalls of the chute 30. The brakeassembly can inhibit an excessive quantity of covering material frombeing pulled off the chute 30 during product insertion into thecovering. The brake assembly may be particularly suitable for use withnetting covering materials. In addition, the product covering can beheld (stretched axially) to be relatively tight and substantiallycentered about the encased product. The tightness or tension of thecovering material may be adjusted by varying the force that the grippermembers 90 apply to the chute 30. Where a pneumatic cylinder is used toautomatically operate the brakes, the force/tension adjustment can becarried out by adjusting the air pressure delivered to the cylinder. Apressure regulator for this operation may be disposed on the HMI 55(FIG. 1).

In some embodiments, the modules 40 m, 40 m′ include a product-holdingmember (i.e., product clamp) that can automatically be moved intoposition by actuating a clamp drive cylinder, thereby blocking theproduct from moving further downstream (not shown). See, e g.,co-pending, co-assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/508,609, Filed Oct. 3, 2003, the contents of which are incorporatedby reference herein. The optional holding member may be configured toactuate to its operative holding position prior to retraction of theproduct pusher assembly 20 and/or to clamp onto the encased product toinhibit the product from migrating back into the chute as the productpusher head 20 h is retracted. The holding member can also hold theencased product so that the upstream covering material is relativelyfirmly or tightly held proximate the clipper 40 and/or facilitatecentering the covering material during the gathering and clippingoperations. The holding member can be integrated with the handle maker60 (where used) or it can be a separate component. Co-pending,co-assigned U.S. Provisional Application 60/579,709 filed Jun. 15, 2004and identified by further describes a flap configuration that can beused to hold the product and co-pending, the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein. Thus,other discharge tables or product holding members may be used in lieu ofand/or with the table 66.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12C, the discharge table 66′ isinterchangeable with that shown in FIG. 12B. The table or tray 66′includes two slots 66 s, each holding a translatable flap 75 ₁, 75 ₂with a leg that travels in a respective slot. The flaps 75 ₁, 75 ₂ canautomatically move upstream and downstream and pivot to move closertogether (FIG. 12D). The flap configuration can be configured to orienta bone in a bone-in ham product so that the product can be clipped onthe bone end, such that the netted product hangs generally straight andprovides additional spiral cuts as the spiral cut is performed on theaxis of the bone.

The actuation of the holding member can be controlled by the PLC usingproximity sensors and operation feedback as will be understood by one ofskill in the art. The discharge table 66 may be stationary (with orwithout rollers as shown). In other embodiments, the product table 66may include a traveling floor (such as a conveyor) that advances thepackaged product to another processing or subsequent workstation (notshown).

FIG. 14 illustrates that the front end of the apparatus 10 can include aframe 10 f that is modular. The frame 10 f holds the chute 30 and thepusher assembly 20 (FIG. 1). The frame 10 f may also hold the in-feedconveyor 50 (FIG. 1), a control box 155 and PLC interface 55. The frame10 f can be configured to accommodate different size interchangeablechutes 30 and/or different widths of conveyor 50. For example, theapparatus 10 can operate with larger and smaller chutes 30, which can beplaced on the frame 10 f at the OEM site and/or at a use site, dependingon a particular product/use. The chute widths may range from betweenabout 9-13 inches and the height of the chutes 30 may be between about5-12 inches. A smaller chute 30 may have a cavity that is about 9 incheswide by 5.75 inches tall while a larger chute 30 may have a cavity thatis about 13 inches wide by about 11.25 inches tall. The chutes 30 mayhave a length (at least for the portion having a generally constantcross-sectional area) that is between about 28-30 inches. The chutes 30may also have a flared or funnel-like entry portion 30 f (FIG. 3) with alength of about 4-10 inches. The funnel 30 f may be formed with largerflares for the larger chutes. In addition, the apparatus frame 10 f mayaccommodate conveyors 50 having widths that are between about 18-24inches wide.

FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate one example of a clipper mechanism 40. Theclipper 40 can include a pivot attachment which can be supported by theframe 40 f (such as by two trunnion type arms as shown in FIG. 10) topivotally mount the clipper to the frame 40 f. The clipper 40 caninclude a curvilinear clip rail or channel 41 that is in communicationwith the clip window 40 w to automatically supply clips to theunderlying covering material. The clipper 40 may be particularlysuitable for clipping netting but may be used for other materials aswell. The clipper 40 can be configured to attach to the coupling member240 to suspend the clipper from the frame 40 f as shown for example inFIG. 10.

As is well known to those of skill in the art, in operation, the clipper40 defines a closure/clip delivery path using a clip rail 41 incommunication with the clip window 40 w in a clip channel for receipt ofa U-shaped metal clip. The clip is advanced in the closure path orchannel by means of a punch so that the clip will engage a diepositioned in a manner permitting the clip to be formed about gatheredmaterial that encases the product in the material at a closure zone inthe product travel path. Although not illustrated, pressurized air orother means of pressing or moving the clip to close about the tubularpackage may also be used. As shown, the guide rail 41 can have acurvilinear configuration with a vertical run which is curved at itslower end so that it gradually merges into a horizontal run to directclips mounted thereon into the window 40 w. The clips are typicallyarranged in a stack with adjacent clips abutting each other so that thelegs of each clip fit around the guide rail with a crown of each clipfitting over the guide rail. The multiple clips may be connected to oneanother by means of a thin elastomeric film, tape or adhesive (typicallyalong the crown) so that the clips together may slide down the guiderail and around the bend therein between the vertical and horizontalruns of the guide rail. Typically, clips are provided in a coil or on areel for feeding onto the guide rail. Although illustrated herein as agenerally vertical and downwardly directed clip feed, other feedorientations may also be employed.

As shown in FIGS. 15A-15C, the clipper 40 can include a cutting member165 mounted to a lower portion of the clipper body. The cutting member165 is configured to cut from the bottom up. The cutting member 165 canbe configured to move in concert with the clipper 40 as the clipper 40moves to its home and full clip position (and, where used, to thepre-clip position). As shown, gathering plates 141 and 142 can bemounted to the lower portion of the clipper 40 with the clip window 40 wtherebetween. When the clipper 40 is in its full-clip position, such asin the orientation shown in FIG. 15A, the cutting member 165 isgenerally vertically oriented and disposed under the gathering platewindows 141 w, 142 w, respectively. The cutting member 165 can then riseto sever the gathered and typically clipped or otherwise closed/sealedcovering about the package. The cutting member 165 can be incommunication with an actuator 165 c that automatically extends thecutting member into the cutting position, then retracts the cuttingmember 165. The cutting member 165 can reside and slidably travel in acutting guide 166 having a channel 166 c. The guide 166 can be alignedwith the gathering plates 141, 142, typically disposed axiallyintermediate thereof, and can be attached to the clipper 40. In otherembodiments, the guide 166 may be formed into a gathering plate (notshown). Typically, the guide 166 is disposed proximate but upstream ofthe clipping location, at least where a single clip is applied. Wheretwo spaced-apart clips are applied to the gathered covering, the guide166 can be held intermediate the two clip locations to provide thedesired cut location.

FIGS. 16-18 are enlarged views of the cutting member 165. FIG. 16 isillustrated with certain features shaded so that the underlying cuttingknife and cutting channel are visible. The cutting guide 166 hasopposing upper and lower portions, 166 u, 166 l, respectively, with anintermediate window portion 166 w extending intermediate thereof Thewindow portion 166 w can be aligned with the gathering plate window. Thecutting guide channel 166 c can extend both in the upper and lowerportions of the guide 166. In operation, the cutting member 165 slidesupwardly in the lower channel 166 c, extends across the window 166 w andinto the channel 166 c in the upper portion 166 u of the cutting guide165. The cutting guide channel 166 c can be formed into a unitary body.Alternatively, the cutting guide 166 can comprise two members withgenerally planar downwardly extending sidewalls that are spaced apart adistance sufficient to receive and allow the cutting member 165 to slidewhile retained in a desired alignment. The two spaced apart members maybe plates and/or the channel 166 c may be generally planar. The cuttingmember 165 can be configured to remain in the lower body channel 166 lduring periods of non-use.

As shown in FIG. 17, (with one gathering plate omitted for clarity) onelong edge portion 165 e of the cutting member 165 can be retained in thecutting guide channel 166 c as the cutting member 166 travels across theguide window 166 w into the extended cutting, shearing and/or severingposition. Where used, this positive retention of the cutting member 165may provide additional alignment stability in some applications. Thecutting member 165 may be a generally planar blade with a leading angledknife-edge portion as shown in FIG. 16. Other cutting techniques can beused including, but not limited to, heat (of whatever type), water,pressure, and other knife and/or blade shapes, as well as combinationsthereof. Accordingly, the term “cutting” as used herein is used broadlyto mean separating and/or severing adjacent portions of coveringmaterial and is not limited to physically cutting with a sharpimplement.

In addition, it is noted that the present invention is not limited to abottom-up cutting operation as top-down cutting mechanisms can be usedsuch as, for example, hot-knife devices are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.4,683,700 and 5,161,347, the contents of which are hereby incorporatedby reference as if recited in full herein.

The clipper 40 can include a plurality of spaced apart gathering plates141, 142 that are configured to automatically gather a portion of thetubular or sleeve of covering material (held in tension) to form thematerial into a rope-like and/or compressed configuration in preparationfor receiving the clip(s) thereabout. Pairs of cooperating plates can bepositioned to retractably travel axially in the product travel pathtoward and away from each other. As shown, the gathering plates 141, 142may be mounted to the clipper 40 and can be described as clippergathering plates. See co-pending, co-assigned U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/508,609 for additional description of gatheringplates, the contents of which have been incorporated by referencehereinabove. In addition or alternatively, voider plates (shown forexample as members 69 p ₁, 69 p ₂ in FIGS. 11B, 11C) can be configuredto gather or compress the covering material that extends between theclipper 40 and the product chute discharge end portion 30 d.

In operation, once the covering material is gathered, a clip or clipscan be applied to secure the encased product in the covering material.The covering material can then be severed to release the encased productin the clipped package. In certain embodiments, two clips are appliedsubstantially concurrently proximate to each other using a dual clipperso that one clip closes the trailing edge of the covering materialforming a first encased package and the other closes a leading edge ofthe covering material forming the next encased package. The clippedconfiguration of the covering material encasing the product may beconfigured to substantially conform to the shape of the enclosedproduct(s) or may be more loosely configured.

In certain embodiments, after the product moves by (and may be stoppedby the product-holding member 75 (FIG. 12C)), the clipper 40 moves intoits full-clip position (either from a home or pre-clip position) withits actuation cylinder 140, which also moves the gathering plates 141,142 as well as the cutting member guide 166 and cutting member 165toward the centerline of the travel path. The terms “actuator” or“actuation cylinder” are used generically to indicate any type ofautomatically moveable actuation member.

In some embodiments, the gathering plates 141, 142, guide 166 andcutting member 165 are mounted to the clipper 40 (i.e., clippergathering plates) to move in concert therewith. As the clipper 40 isrotated into position, the clipper gathering plates 141, 142automatically start the gathering operation. In certain embodiments, themodules 40 m, 40 m′ can include additional gathering plates (not shown)that may be positioned on the opposing side of the travel path and whichmay be configured to laterally linearly translate into and out ofoperative position. In certain embodiments, each gathering plate can bemounted so that in operative position they are horizontally andvertically aligned with the corresponding centerlines of the productchute cavity 30 c.

Summarizing some embodiments, when a product or target object enters theproduct transfer zone 65 (FIG. 1), its presence can be automaticallydetermined and the apparatus controller can then activate an automatedcycle. The automated cycle can include: stopping the infeed conveyorfrom advancing and actuating the product pusher assembly cylinder 21.The product pusher head 20 h attached to the product pusher cylinder 21and guide rods 22, 23 advance to engage the target product, which ispushed through the product chute 30 encased in covering material (e.g.,netting) upon exit from the product chute 30. Upon exiting the productchute 30, the encased product is pushed onto the product table 66. Whenthe product pusher head 20 h reaches the end of its forward stroke, itsposition is detected by a sensor such as a Hall-effect switch, and theproduct holding member 75 is actuated. Then, the product pusher assemblyhead 20 is retracted into the product chute before the covering materialis gathered and clipped. The product pusher cylinder 21 does not have tobe fully retracted prior to initiation of the automated gathering andclipping operations. Once the product pusher head 20 h clears thedischarge end of the product chute 30 or reaches its desired travelstroke extension position, an intermediate sensor, such as anotherHall-effect switch, typically placed on the product pusher cylinder 21,senses the partial retraction thereof. When the sensor is activated, theapparatus 10 can automatically (i.e., typically via the PLC) proceed toinitiate the handle making (where used), gathering and clippingoperations.

Thus, proximate in time to the retraction of the pusher head 20 h, theclipper 40 automatically pivots into pre-clip position, therebyadvancing the clipper gathering plates (where used) to the productcenterline to converge the covering material into a rope-likeconfiguration. One or two closure clips can then be applied thereto. Thedownstream clip ends the first product and the upstream clip defines thefirst end portion of the next product. The cutting cylinder is actuatedand the covering material is severed between the two clips. Once thesevering is complete, the cutting cylinder is retracted and theapparatus 10 can automatically start a reset cycle, returning theclipper 40 to its home position. The product-holding member 75 can bemoved and the product released to travel downstream. When the clipper 40and gathering plates 141, 142 are substantially in their home position,the apparatus 10 can begin the cycle again. When the product pusherassembly 20 reaches its retracted configuration, the infeed conveyor 50can be started again so that when the reset is complete, another productis in position for entry into the product chute 30. In each case if aproduct is not detected in the transfer zone 65 in a predetermined time,the apparatus 10 can shut off and wait for a start signal to reactivatethe process/apparatus, such as via a pushbutton at the HMI station.

The operation and sequence of certain events can be controlled by aprogrammable logic controller. Certain operations may be selected by anoperator input using a Human Machine Interface to communicate with thecontroller as is well known to those of skill in the art.

FIG. 19 illustrates exemplary operations that may be carried outaccording to embodiments of the present invention. As shown, a cuttingmember can be automatically (including semi-automatically) movedupwardly in a predetermined travel path to sever gathered coveringmaterial from the bottom-up (block 300). The predetermined direction canbe in a direction that is generally orthogonal to a product travel pathto sever gathered covering material. The cutting member can then beautomatically retracted to a home position (block 310).

In some embodiments, the operations can also include automatically(which includes semi-automatically) attaching at least one clip to thegathered covering material before the cutting member severs the gatheredmaterial (block 303). The cutting member can be timed to move upward sothat the severing occurs just after the clipping operation (block 305).The cutting member can be automatically guided vertically upwardly in aplanar channel defined by spaced apart sidewalls of a guide member(block 307). The cutting member may include a generally planar bladewith an angled leading edge portion that is held trapped in a generallyplanar aperture (block 309).

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of exemplary embodiments of data processingsystems that illustrates systems, methods, and computer program productsin accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The dataprocessing systems may be incorporated in a programmable logiccontroller (such as station 55) and/or be in communication therewith.The processor 410 communicates with the memory 414 via an address/databus 448. The processor 410 can be any commercially available or custommicroprocessor. The memory 414 is representative of the overallhierarchy of memory devices containing the software and data used toimplement the functionality of the data processing system. The memory414 can include, but is not limited to, the following types of devices:cache, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, SRAM, and DRAM.

As shown in FIG. 20, the memory 414 may include several categories ofsoftware and data used in the data processing system: the operatingsystem 452; the application programs 454; the input/output (I/O) devicedrivers 458; the Automated Bottom-Up Cutting Actuation Module 450; andthe data 456.

The data 456 may include a look-up chart of different products, coveringmaterial, proximity sensor feedback, safety interlock circuits and thelike 451 corresponding to particular or target products for one or moreproducers, which may allow additional force to cut the gathered materialand/or time the cutting to a desired cycle for a shift and/or productionrun and the like.

As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the operatingsystem 452 may be any operating system suitable for use with a dataprocessing system, such as OS/2, AIX, DOS, OS/390 or System390 fromInternational Business Machines Corporation, Armonk, N.Y., Windows CE,Windows NT, Windows95, Windows98 or Windows2000 from MicrosoftCorporation, Redmond, Wash., Unix or Linux or FreeBSD, Palm OS fromPalm, Inc., Mac OS from Apple Computer, LabView, or proprietaryoperating systems. The I/O device drivers 458 typically include softwareroutines accessed through the operating system 452 by the applicationprograms 454 to communicate with devices such as I/O data port(s), datastorage 456 and certain memory 414 components. The application programs454 are illustrative of the programs that implement the various featuresof the data processing system and can include at least one application,which supports operations according to embodiments of the presentinvention. Finally, the data 456 represents the static and dynamic dataused by the application programs 454, the operating system 452, the I/Odevice drivers 458, and other software programs that may reside in thememory 414.

While the present invention is illustrated, for example, with referenceto the Automated Bottom-UP Actuation Module 450 being an applicationprogram in FIG. 20, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art,other configurations may also be utilized while still benefiting fromthe teachings of the present invention. For example, the Module 450 mayalso be incorporated into the operating system 452, the I/O devicedrivers 458 or other such logical division of the data processingsystem. Thus, the present invention should not be construed as limitedto the configuration of FIG. 20, which is intended to encompass anyconfiguration capable of carrying out the operations described herein.Further, the Module 450 can be used to operate other apparatus that mayemploy other chute, horn, and/or clipper types.

The I/O data port can be used to transfer information between the dataprocessing system, the product pusher, and the closure attachmentmechanism or another computer system or a network (e.g., the Internet)or to other devices controlled by the processor. These components may beconventional components such as those used in many conventional dataprocessing systems which may be configured in accordance with thepresent invention to operate as described herein.

For example, certain embodiments of the present invention are directedto a computer program product for operating an automated clipped(netting) packaging apparatus so that the clipper mechanism operatesfrom either a left or right hand side. The computer program product caninclude computer readable program code that allows a user to select lefthand or right hand clipping mechanism operation, which may be programmedor selected at the OEM site. That is, the controller may have twoprogram sequences, one for operating left hand operation and one forright hand operation (for either or both the handle-maker and/orclipper). During assembly and/or test, an OEM site can lock in theproper operational sequence. In other embodiments, the program isindifferent to which mounting orientation is used and, as such, a commonprogram can be used to operate the apparatus irrespective of whichmounting orientation is employed.

The automated/semi-automated packaging apparatus can include anautomated product pusher mechanism that advances and retracts from aproduct chute and an automated clipping apparatus that applies at leastone closure clip to netting thereat. The computer program product caninclude: (a) computer readable program code that automaticallycontrollably actuates a pusher actuation cylinder to push a productpusher in a downstream direction; and (b) computer readable program codethat automatically controllably actuates a clipper mechanism to positiona clipping apparatus in a clipping position in response to productpushed by the product pusher out of the product chute and covered innetting.

In particular embodiments, the computer program product can also includeone or more of: (a) computer readable program code that automaticallycontrollably actuates netting gathering plate actuation cylinders tolaterally translate the plates toward the clipper mechanism; (b)computer readable program code that automatically controllably actuatesa package holding member to maintain a product held in netting inalignment with the clipper mechanism; (c) computer readable program codethat monitors a proximity sensor positioned to detect when a product isin position to be packaged and then automatically controllably actuatesthe pusher cylinder in response thereto; (d) computer readable programcode that prevents actuation of the pusher cylinder when the productchute is not in proper position; (e) computer readable program code thatactuates a cutting tool actuation cylinder to controllably advance thecutting tool and automatically sever netting intermediate two clipsthereon; (f) computer readable program code that supplies heat to thecutting tool; (g) computer readable program code that automaticallyactuates clip pushers in the clipper mechanism when netting is gatheredand in position for clipping at the clipping window; (h) computerreadable program code that controls the actuation of a braking mechanismto advance the braking mechanism to contact the product chute andselectively apply pressure to netting thereat; (i) computer readableprogram code that automatically controllably actuates the pusheractuation cylinder to pull a product pusher in an upstream direction outof the product chute; and (j) computer readable program code thatautomatically controllably actuates the clipper mechanism to remove theclipping apparatus from the clipping position.

While the present invention is illustrated, for example, with referenceto particular divisions of programs, functions and memories, the presentinvention should not be construed as limited to such logical divisions.Thus, the present invention should not be construed as limited to theconfiguration of FIG. 20 but is intended to encompass any configurationcapable of carrying out the operations described herein.

The flowcharts and block diagrams of certain of the figures hereinillustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possibleimplementations of selective implementation of single and dual clipclosure means according to the present invention. In this regard, eachblock in the flow charts or block diagrams represents a module, segment,or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructionsfor implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also benoted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted inthe blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example,two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantiallyconcurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverseorder, depending upon the functionality involved.

The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to beconstrued as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments ofthis invention have been described, those skilled in the art willreadily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplaryembodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings andadvantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined inthe claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses, where used, areintended to cover the structures described herein as performing therecited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalentstructures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing isillustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed aslimited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications tothe disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended tobe included within the scope of the appended claims. The invention isdefined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to beincluded therein.

1. A system for pushing product through a product chute that dispensescovering material from an outer surface thereof so that the coveringmaterial receives a product discharged from the product chute,comprising: a product chute having an open through cavity; a pusher headhaving a forward portion with a pin extending outwardly therefrom sothat a sharp end of the pin extends in a downstream direction, thepusher head configured and sized to enter into the product chute andpush a food object undergoing packaging through the product chute; apusher actuation cylinder attached to the pusher head assembly to directthe pusher head assembly to automatically and controllably repetitivelyreciprocate between a downstream position and an upstream position,wherein, in operation, the product emerges from the product chute in asubstantially uncompressed shape to be encased in a covering materialheld over an exterior portion of the product chute; and a clippermechanism in communication with the product chute whereby the clippermechanism applies at least one clip to a leading and/or trailing endportion of the covering material.
 2. A system according to claim 1,further comprising a pair of axially extending guide rods held onopposing sides of the pusher cylinder and having a length that issubstantially coextensive to that of the pusher cylinder, wherein theguide rods are configured to move in concert with the pusher cylinderboth in a forward and rearward stroke of a stroke cycle associated withthe reciprocating movement of the pusher head assembly, and wherein thepusher cylinder and guide rods reside laterally spaced apart from eachother across a width of the chute in a horizontal orientation above afloor of the chute.
 3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the pusherhead comprises a channel that angles inwardly from two outer sideportions to a substantially planar medial portion, and wherein the pinis a single pin that is attached to and extends outwardly in adownstream direction from the planar medial portion.
 4. A systemaccording to claim 3, wherein the pin has a length such that aforwardmost portion resides proximate a boundary defined by a lineextending across the forwardmost edge of the two outer side portions,and wherein each outer side portion of the channel is connected to arespective axially extending guidewalls.
 5. A system according to claim4, wherein the pin resides behind the boundary.
 6. A system according toclaim 1, wherein the pusher actuation cylinder is in communication witha pressure regulator that is configured to allow the product pusher toautomatically serially push products through the product chute thenretract to reside upstream of the product chute with a major portion ofthe pusher actuation cylinder exposed to environmental conditions,wherein the actuation cylinder operates with a substantially fixedpressure of between about 50- 80 psi to push respective products throughthe chute using a continuous push stroke cycle.
 7. A system according toclaim 1, further comprising: at least one pressure regulator incommunication with the actuation cylinder and in communication with apressurized air supply; and a plurality of three-way valves incommunication with the pressure regulator and/or actuation cylinder, onethree-way valve residing at first and second opposing end portions ofthe actuation cylinder.
 8. A system according to claim 1, wherein theproduct pusher comprises a pair of elongate guide rods, at least onebeing disposed on each side of an actuation rod that is attached to theactuation cylinder, the actuation rod and guide rods being attached tothe pusher head and spaced apart from each other over a width directionof the chute, wherein the actuation rod, guide rods and pusher head areconfigured to reciprocally travel substantially in concert in and out ofthe product chute, the system further comprising a controller thatelectronically directs the pusher head to controllably automaticallyadvance into and retract from the product chute to thereby advance aproduct from a position upstream of the product chute, through theproduct chute and out of the discharge end portion of the product chute.9. A system according to claim 1, wherein the pin is a single pin heldin a medial location of the pusher head and is configured to pierce andreleasably enter a target product.
 10. A system according to claim 1,wherein the product pusher assembly is configured to push edible fooditems.
 11. A system according to claim 1, wherein the product chute is anetting chute holding a sleeve of netting thereon wherein the productpusher assembly is configured to push meat through the netting chute.12. A system according to claim 1, wherein the pin has a width that issubstantially smaller than the pusher head.
 13. A system according toclaim 1, wherein the pin is statically affixed to the pusher head.
 14. Asystem according to claim 1, wherein the food object and chute are sizedand configured so that the food object travels snugly through the chute.15. A system according to claim 1, wherein the product chute cavity isoversized relative to the food object and the food object travelsuncompressed through the chute.
 16. A system with a product pusherassembly for pushing product through a product chute that dispensesnetting material from an outer surface thereof so that the nettingmaterial receives a product discharged from the product chute,comprising: a product chute having an open through cavity; a sleeve ofnetting material held over an exterior surface of the product chute; apusher head having a forward portion with a piercing member with a sharptapered forwardly extending end portion extending outwardly therefrom,the pusher head configured and sized to enter into the product chute andpush an edible food object undergoing packaging through the productchute; a pusher actuation cylinder attached to the pusher head assemblyto direct the pusher head assembly to automatically and controllablyrepetitively reciprocate between a downstream position and an upstreamposition, wherein, in operation, the food object emerges from theproduct chute to be encased in the netting material; and a clippermechanism in communication with the product chute whereby the clippermechanism applies at least one clip to a leading and/or trailing endportion of the netting material.
 17. A system according to claim 16,wherein the piercing member has a width that is substantially smallerthan the pusher head.
 18. A system according to claim 16, wherein thepiercing member is statically affixed to the pusher head and moves inconcert therewith.
 19. A system according to claim 16, wherein theedible food object and chute are sized and configured so that the foodobject travels snugly through the chute.
 20. A system according to claim16, wherein the product chute cavity is oversized relative to the ediblefood object and the food object travels uncompressed through the chute.